Isidore-Jules Bonheur

Overall the condition of the bronze is excellent. There is some minor wear and dirt to the patina consistent with age. There are a few minor chips to the edges of the black marble base.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

In 1857 Bonheur exhibited his Un taureau et un ours in bronze at the annual Paris Salon (no.2744). Alongside it he exhibited another combat group: Vache défendant son veau contre un loup in plaster. Bonheur had made his debut at the Salon nine years before and his 1857 exhibits are amongst his most important early compositions.  The Taureau et un ours was certainly important to Bonheur since he re-exhibited the group at the Exposition Universelle in 1900. The present cast shows that the sculptor modelled the group with great care, observing nature in minute detail. It is a great example of the flawless casts Bonheur created in close cooperation with his brother-in-law, the founder Hippolyte Peyrol.

RELATED LITERATURE
Lami, vol. I, pp. 127-130